AtanariaThe fourth season of Only Murders in the Building kicks off with a bold move—literally, to Los Angeles. Just when you think the show’s title might be getting a little loosey-goosey, it pulls you right back into the mystery that began in the very building we know and love.
The episode opens with a tantalizing continuation from last season’s cliffhanger. Sazz, Charles’s quirky body double, has been shot in what appears to be a tragic case of mistaken identity. But in classic Only Murders fashion, things aren’t as they seem. Sazz’s body is nowhere to be found, leaving Charles blissfully unaware and the audience on edge. But what does show up? A mysterious text from Sazz’s phone claiming she’s gone back to L.A.—cue our trio’s bicoastal adventure.
Charles, Oliver, and Mabel are heading to Hollywood, with dreams of a movie deal dangling before them. The satire is sharp as ever, this time skewering the glitzy absurdities of the film industry. The New York-on-a-studio-lot scene is a perfect wink to the show’s origins, complete with fake hot dogs and thicker-than-syrup accents.
As the trio meets with the film’s creative team, including the hilariously misnamed “Brothers” (played by Siena Werber and Cat Cohen), the seeds of doubt and identity crises start to sprout. Mabel, ever sensitive about her life’s precariousness, is especially rattled when she learns how the movie will portray her. This sets up a classic Only Murders dynamic: Oliver’s relentless enthusiasm clashing with Mabel’s deep-seated anxieties.
Adding to the fun is the star-studded casting reveal for their onscreen counterparts: Eugene Levy as Charles, Zach Galifianakis as Oliver, and Eva Longoria as an aged-up Mabel (because, apparently, focus groups found the original age gap creepy). The casting alone is enough to spark giggles, but the interactions—especially Oliver’s bafflement at not recognizing Galifianakis—are gold.
And just when you think things couldn’t get better, Meryl Streep returns as Loretta, now sporting an L.A. glow that’s as bright as her undeniable chemistry with Oliver. Their rooftop lovefest is both heartwarming and hilarious, a testament to the show’s ability to balance humor with genuine emotion.
But let’s not forget the mystery at the heart of it all. The episode leaves us with more questions than answers—exactly as it should. Sazz’s apartment holds a trove of cryptic clues, culminating in the chilling discovery of metal joints in the Arconia’s incinerator. And who could forget the sinister text Charles receives: “Not your fucking friend”? Whoever’s behind this season’s murder is clearly playing a long game, and the stakes have never been higher.
Season 4’s premiere is a masterclass in blending comedy with mystery, pushing our beloved trio out of their comfort zone while keeping the heart of the show intact. With its clever writing, impeccable casting, and a mystery that’s already got us hooked, Only Murders in the Building proves it’s still at the top of its game—even when the game takes them to Hollywood.
